Medical Marijuana

Medical cannabis or medical marijuana is cannabis and cannabinoids that are prescribed by doctors for their patients. Dr. Edward Hill discusses medical marijuana in todays 60 Second Housecall.

Dr. Hill:

Medical marijuana is marijuana used to treat disease or relieve symptoms. Despite a federal ban, many states allow use of medical marijuana to treat pain, nausea and other symptoms.

Marijuana is made from the dried leaves and buds of the Cannabis sativa plant. It can be smoked, inhaled or ingested in food or tea. Medical marijuana is also available as a pill or an oil.

Each state that has legalized medical marijuana regulates who may use it and how the product is distributed within its borders. Some states have processes for certifying and registering eligible people. Some have also designated dispensaries, or medical marijuana centers, where people can get the product and advice.

Studies report that marijuana has possible benefit for several conditions, including:

Chronic pain

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Crohns disease

Epilepsy or seizures

Multiple sclerosis or severe muscle spasms

Terminal illness, and

Tourette syndrome

State laws vary in which conditions qualify people for treatment with medical marijuana.